22 Credits CERT3531/CERT2480, Academic Catalog 2025-2026
Resources
Campuses: Faribault and North Mankato
Program Start Semesters: Fall and Spring
Base estimate for 22 credit program
Tuition is paid on a semester by semester basis and will vary depending on the courses and total credits you take.
Tuition and Fees: $4,718
Tools and Equipment: $ n/a
Total Estimated Cost: $4,718 *
Compare the costs and you'll see that tuition at South Central College is much more affordable than other institutions.
*Based on 2025-2026 tuition and fees rates. Does not include extra expenses for online delivery, course fees, or course differential. Books, transportation, and living expenses also not included.
The course requirements listed below are specific to the current school year (noted above). If you need to view the program from previous years view our Catalog Archive.
Required Technical Courses (4 Courses)
Complete the following courses:
HC1525 Health Care Core Foundations (1 - 4 credits)
This variable credit course will focus on the requirements needed by healthcare professionals to effectively work in a variety of healthcare settings and explore workplace skills such as accountability and responsibility, workplace behavior, approaches to assist clients, and expectations of teams and team members. This course provides a framework for healthcare workers to interact with diverse clients and staff, including belief systems, cultural practices, and respect and sensitivity to cultural, gender, and age issues. Identifying elements of communication and how those elements can develop into effective communication within the healthcare setting is a key focus, as well as learning when and how to utilize those skills in challenging situations. Health care ethics will be addressed and target ethical decision-making and personal and professional values. Legal issues in healthcare will round out the course, concentrating on healthcare laws and social media in healthcare. Healthcare safety and standards precautions will be incorporated, as well as personal wellness for the healthcare professional. This variable credit course was designed as a part of the Minnesota Health Care Core Curriculum. (Prerequisites: None)
HC1000 Medical Terminology (3 credits)
This course is an introduction to the language of medicine that is used in the health care profession. The student will learn to spell, pronounce, define, and interpret medical terminology related to body structure, disease, diagnosis, and treatment. (Prerequisites: None)
HLTH1950 CPR (1 credits)
This course covers the skills of infant, child and adult single and two rescue CPR as well as relief of foreign body airway obstruction procedures for infant, child and adult. Automated external defibrillators, bag-valve-masks and pocket masks are also used. Signs and symptoms of vascular disease are discussed. This meets the current criteria of the American Heart Association guidelines. (Prerequisites: None)
HLTH1952 First Aid (1 credits)
This course includes emergency care training for initial treatment of illness and injury. Patient assessment, bleeding control, shock management, soft tissue injury, orthopedic injury, diabetic problems, seizures, poisons, heat exposure and cold exposure are some of the topics covered in the course. This course is appropriate for anyone who may need to render immediate care. The topics covered do meet the course requirements for OSHA and MSHA first aid training.
Arts and Sciences Electives (7 Credits)
Complete 7 credits from the following courses:
ENGL100 Composition (4 credits)
Composition is concerned with developing, through theory and practice, the ability to communicate in written form for personal and professional reasons. Students will develop writing skills, analytic skills, and critical thinking skills. Students will complete readings, papers, grammar exercises, and in-class activities. Students will complete research and write a research paper. Students will learn methods of writing informatively and persuasively. (Prerequisites: Must have one of the following: (MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher) OR (READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher) OR (completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher) AND (completion of either ENGL 0090 or EAP 0095 with a grade of C [2.0] or higher) (MNTC 1: Communication)
BIOL162 Human Biology (4 credits)
This one-semester course is an introduction to the biology of the human body. Basic form and function of the body systems and their interactions will be emphasized. Other topics include: terminology, basic chemistry, cell biology genetics, molecular biology and nutrition as it relates to the human body. This course contains a laboratory portion. (Minnesota Transfer Curriculum goal area 3) (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC 3: Natural Sciences)
OR
BIOL220 Human Anatomy (4 credits)
This course takes an in-depth look at the anatomy of the human body systems. The course emphasizes structure and anatomical function at the cellular, tissue, organ and systemic level. Dysfunctions are included but the body in homeostasis is emphasized. This course includes a weekly three hour lab. Some labs include dissection. (Prerequisite: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Area 3)
BIOL230 Human Physiology (4 credits)
This course provides an in-depth study of the functioning of most body systems, including muscle, nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and endocrine systems at both the cellular and systemic level. An emphasis is placed on normal physiology, but dysfunction will also be discussed. This course contains a weekly 3 hour laboratory component. (Prerequisites: BIOL 220 with a grade of C or better and CHEM 108, CHEM 110 or CHEM 120 with a grade of C or better) (MNTC Goal Area 3)
BIOL240 Pathophysiology (3 credits)
This course provides an in-depth study of the chemical, biological and psychological process involved with alterations of health, using systemic and non-systemic approaches. Through case studies, students will test theories taught in class by reading background information about patients, forming possible diagnosis, deciding what tests to run, analyzing data and forming conclusions about the patients conditions. They will then justify possible treatments. (Prerequisite: Completion of BIOL 230 with a grade of C or better.) (MNTC 3: Natural Sciences)
BIOL270 Microbiology (4 credits)
This course is an introduction to the general principles and methods used in the study of microorganisms. It includes a survey of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms emphasizing bacteria and viruses. Topics include microbial cell structure and function, metabolism, microbial genetics, and the role of microorganisms in disease, immunity and other selected applied areas. Laboratory techniques include isolating, culturing and identifying microorganisms. This course contains a three hour per week laboratory component. (Prerequisites: A grade of C or higher in BIOL115 OR BIOL225 OR BIOL220 AND CHEM108 OR CHEM110 OR CHEM 120) (MNTC Goal Area 3)
CHEM108 Introduction to Chemistry (4 credits)
A one-semester introduction to the field of chemistry, this course is designed to allow the student to understand how chemistry relates to everyday life and to learn some of the language and concepts of chemistry related to applied health. This course uses a math-based approach. (Prerequisite: [Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher] AND [have a Next-Generation Accuplacer AAF score of 250 or higher or (Classic Accuplacer Arithmetic score of 56 or higher and Classic Accuplacer Elementary Algebra score of 76 or higher) or completion of either MATH 0085 or MATH 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher or ACT Math score of 19 or higher or MCA Math score of 1158 or higher.] (MNTC 3: Natural Sciences)
OR
CHEM110 Chemistry for the Health Sciences (4 credits)
Key concepts of general, organic, and biological chemistry are introduced in an integrated approach with applications from the medical fields. The course is designed to prepare students for Anatomy, Physiology, and Microbiology or to be utilized as a general Liberal Arts and Sciences course. Limited mathematical approach; this course does not meet the requirements of a prerequisite for CHEM 120. Lecture and a 2-hour lab are included. (Prerequisite: [Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher or READ 0095 or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher] AND [ENGL 0090 or EAP 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher] AND [have a Next-Generation Accuplacer AAF score of 250 or higher or (Classic Accuplacer Arithmetic score of 56 or higher and Classic Accuplacer Elementary Algebra score of 76 or higher) or completion of either MATH 0085 or MATH 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher or ACT Math score of 19 or higher or MCA Math score of 1158 or higher.] (MNTC 2, 3: Critical Thinking, Natural Sciences)
COMM130 Intercultural Communication (3 credits)
The focus of intercultural communication is to develop and improve the knowledge needed to understand culture, communication, how culture influences communication, and the process of communication between people from different cultures or co-cultures. The course also focuses on practicing the skills needed for effective intercultural interactions. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Areas 7a - Human Diversity, Goal Area 8 - Global Perspectives)
OR
COMM140 Interpersonal Communication (3 credits)
In this class, participants will examine key components of interpersonal communication theory, identify the interpersonal communication skills necessary for healthy relationships, assess their own interpersonal communication effectiveness, and practice and hone interpersonal communication skills necessary for healthy home and work relationships. This course will also address relevant issues of social interaction, including how human diversity/culture (age, race, gender, etc.) affects our interpersonal communication. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC 1: Communication)
CRTK100 Critical Thinking (3 credits)
This course helps students acquire and develop critical thinking skills. Focused on the practical application of the principles of good reasoning, it encourages them to cultivate cognitive virtues such as consistency, self-awareness, open-mindedness, fairness, and intellectual humility. Students will be taught how to: recognize (and make) good arguments, identify (and avoid) logical fallacies and cognitive biases, articulate ideas in a clear and precise way, understand the significance and limits of the scientific method, and critically evaluate sources in the media. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC: 2 Critical Thinking)
HUM121 Introduction to the Humanities (4 credits)
This course is an overview of the principal trends in Western thought and artistic expression from ancient times to the contemporary. Its aim is to foster an appreciation of how diverse ideas and works of art have contributed to our understanding of the universal human experience. Classroom instruction will be supplemented by guided tours of museums/exhibitions, and attendance at live performances of works pertinent to the course. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC 6: Humanities & Fine Arts)
PSYC100 Introduction to Psychology (4 credits)
This course will introduce the broad spectrum of theories and applications that make up the field of psychology. Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes, and how they are affected by physical and mental states, and external environments and social forces. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC 5: History/Social & Behavioral Sciences)
OR
PSYC110 Lifespan Psychology (3 credits)
This is an introductory course examining human development across the lifespan, with emphasis on normal physical, cognitive, and social development. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC 5 - History/Social & Behavioral Sciences, MNTC 7a - Human Diversity, MNTC 7b - Race/Power/Justice)
PHIL100 Ethics in Society (3 credits)
This course studies the foundations for moral beliefs and values and the part they play in practical ethical judgments. After providing a general introduction to moral concepts and theories, the course covers a wide range of social problems through an analysis of power, privilege, and justice. The class is organized by overarching themes of race, social class, gender, and global concerns and addresses issues involving criminal justice, economic inequality, gender differences, and sexuality. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Area 7a - Human Diversity, MNTC Goal Area 7b - Race/Power/Justice, MNTC Goal Area 9 - Ethical/Civic Resp)
PHIL150 Medical Ethics (3 credits)
This course examines the moral problems confronting medical providers and surveys the broader field of bioethics. After providing a general introduction to ethical concepts and theories, it focuses on specific issues relating to the American health care system, including access to care, inequality, obesity, reproductive rights, end-of-life care, disability, organ transplantation, and alternative medicine. Emphasis is placed on practical application of moral principles and critical analysis of case studies. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Areas 6-Humanities/Fine Arts and 9 - Ethical/Civic Responsibility)
Technical Electives (6 Credits)
Complete 6 credits from the following courses:
HCTC1886 Nursing Assistant (4 credits)
This 4 credit course meets federal and state criteria for eligibility to take the state test to become a NA, R/HHA. It introduces concepts of basic human needs, the health/illness continuum and focuses on preparing the student to safely perform basic nursing skills needed to function as a Nursing Assistant or Home Health Aide. (Prerequisites: None)
HC1550 Electronic Health Records (2 credits)
With the implementation of the electronic health record in today's healthcare environment, it's essential for students entering the healthcare field to understand this technology and how it relates to work in the industry. This course is designed as an introduction to the history of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) and concepts behind the structure of electronic medical recording systems. Additionally, it will provide students the opportunity to use multiple functions of an educational electronic health record. (Prerequisites: None)
HEMS1200 Emergency Medical Technician Initial (160 Hours) (7 credits)
This course will provide the participant the necessary didactic and cognitive skills to enter the Basic Life Support Ambulance occupation arena as an EMT. Upon successful completion of this course the participant will be able to take the National registry of Emergency Medical Technician written and practical examination, administered by the Minnesota EMS Regulatory Board. The course follows the guidelines established by the United States Department of Transportation and meets the requirements set forth by the Minnesota EMS Regulatory Board. This course is a requirement to progress into the Intensive Care Paramedic Program of study. (Prerequisite: Student must be 18 years of age by the start of the course.)
HEMS1300 First Responder Initial (48 Hours) (2 credits)
This 48-hour course provides emergency care training to fire/rescue personnel, law enforcement officers, industrial safety personnel, especially when they are the first on the scene of injuries and medical problems. The course is approved by the Minnesota EMS Regulatory Board and Post-Board approved. As a result of 1999 Minnesota Legislation, prospective First Responder students who have committed misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors or felonies may not qualify to be certified as First Responders. (Prerequisite: None)
OTEC1001 Computer Software for College (2 credits)
This course covers basic information about computer hardware and software and the use of computer software as a business productivity tool. Students will be given introductory training on a Windows operating system and the common business applications of word processing, spreadsheets, database, and presentation graphics. This course is designed to equip the student with knowledge of hardware and software applications. This course will cover the business application software that will be used in more advanced courses. (Prerequisites: Basic computer skills or Computer Basic class; mouse proficiency, keyboarding skill of 25 words per minute)
PLEASE NOTE: All program plans are preliminary and curriculum may change without notice. Your catalog of record may have different requirements.
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